The Learner in Probation Work

Abstract

A probation department can provide a variety of learning ex periences for the beginning social worker, whether field work stu dent or apprentice. The serious nature of the decisions required of probation officers, however, makes it necessary for the supervi sor to take considerable responsibility in the early stage of train ing. The nature of the caseload demands that the learner have an active, optimistic approach. It is necessary to distinguish between normal problems of learning and the special problems of indi vidual learners. Reluctance to use authority and uneven devel opment of treatment skills are to be expected. Persistent in ability to evaluate factual material and pervasive bias are clues to special problems of learners. Standards for the first year of a planned training program in probation should be formulated with consideration given to normal learning problems.